Why did you decide to
become an au pair?
I wanted to travel and work in the USA, and since I love children I thought this was the perfect combination for me. I also wanted to improve my English skills, develop myself and also have an opportunity to experience the real American culture.
I wanted to travel and work in the USA, and since I love children I thought this was the perfect combination for me. I also wanted to improve my English skills, develop myself and also have an opportunity to experience the real American culture.
What child care
experience did you have before you became an au pair?
I worked as a dancing instructor for kids and I babysat children for my relatives and friends.
I worked as a dancing instructor for kids and I babysat children for my relatives and friends.
How did you choose your
host family and how did you know this was the right match for you?
When we talked, everything felt so natural and simple! I could see myself living with them. I talked to their former au pair and after that I knew that it was the right match for me.
When we talked, everything felt so natural and simple! I could see myself living with them. I talked to their former au pair and after that I knew that it was the right match for me.
How did you feel
after the first weeks after arrival to the USA?
It was a mix of feelings and emotions. I remember that I was homesick sometimes but it didn't stop me from continuing. Everything was still new so it was a mix between homesickness and excitement.
It was a mix of feelings and emotions. I remember that I was homesick sometimes but it didn't stop me from continuing. Everything was still new so it was a mix between homesickness and excitement.
What helped you
during this process?
I met friends really quick and that helped me a lot. Also my attitude helped - I stayed positive and was flexible and accepted all the differences. My family and friends back home also helped and supported me when they knew I needed it.
I met friends really quick and that helped me a lot. Also my attitude helped - I stayed positive and was flexible and accepted all the differences. My family and friends back home also helped and supported me when they knew I needed it.
What advice would you
give to a friend who wants to become an au pair?
Be open-minded, flexible and think positive - even when it might be hard. Don't give up when you feel homesick, because it will get better. Travel as much as possible and trust yourself. Enjoy your time before it's over and SMILE!
Be open-minded, flexible and think positive - even when it might be hard. Don't give up when you feel homesick, because it will get better. Travel as much as possible and trust yourself. Enjoy your time before it's over and SMILE!
